Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 15, 2026

A Zebrafish Model of Diabetes Mellitus and Metabolic Memory
Published on: February 28, 2013
Epigenetic flexibility in metabolic regulation: disease cause and prevention?
Henriette Kirchner1, Megan E Osler, Anna Krook
1Integrative Physiology, Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, von Eulers väg 4, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden.
Abstract:
Metabolic diseases, including type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), are increasing worldwide at an alarming rate. Epigenetic DNA modifications such as DNA methylation and histone modifications are thought to play an important role in the development of and predisposition to metabolic diseases. This review highlights the key functions of DNA methylation and histone modifications and elucidates the underlying mechanisms of in utero programming and epigenetic inheritance, which could account for the global increase in obesity and T2DM. The impact of exercise and nutrition on the tissue-specific epigenetic profile is discussed, because these lifestyle factors may modify epigenetic programming and predisposition to obesity and T2DM.
Related Concept Videos
Epigenetic Regulation
X-chromosome...
Epigenetic Regulation
Epigenetic Regulation
Regulation of Metabolism
Type II Diabetes I: Introduction
Overview of Lipid Metabolism
Lipolysis: The Breakdown of Lipids:
Lipolysis is the process of breaking down lipids, particularly triglycerides, into glycerol and fatty acids. This process typically occurs in the adipose tissue and is triggered by various hormones, including glucagon and...

